Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema complicating a patient with a lung abscess

We report the clinical and radiological findings and following treatment in such a patient. AbstractPneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema are conditions that carry significant morbidity. They are uncommonly seen as complications of lung abscess formation and prompt recognition and treatment is necessary. We present a 59-year-old male patient who complained of shortness of breath and chest pain for 2  weeks. Computed tomography (CT) of the thorax showed a left lower lobe lung abscess. This was associated with leucocytosis and raised C-reactive protein. Ultrasound-guided drainage revealed viscous pus requiring manual aspiration for adequate drainage. The patient later developed extensive pneumo mediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema involving the pretracheal space, without evidence of pneumothorax. Left lower lobectomy was performed to control sepsis. The patient achieved a complete recovery following his surgery and antibiotic treatment, with interval resolution of pneumomediastinum and s ubcutaneous emphysema. We present the radiological and clinical features leading to the diagnosis of pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema.
Source: Respirology Case Reports - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: CASE REPORT Source Type: research